The Meanings of Work: Essays on the Affirmation and Negation of Work

In an exploration of the complexities surrounding labor, Ricardo Antunes delves into the intrinsic relationship between work, identity, and survival. He articulates the profound impact work has on billions of individuals who rely on it not just for sustenance, but as a defining aspect of their existence. Through a series of thought-provoking essays, Antunes examines how work shapes societal structures and personal narratives, often reflecting both the aspirations and the struggles of the workforce.

Antunes doesn't shy away from the darker undercurrents of labor, highlighting the negation of work that many experience. This duality invites readers to reflect on the myriad meanings of work—how it can be a source of fulfillment for some, while simultaneously serving as a mechanism of oppression for others. By weaving together personal anecdotes and theoretical insights, he encourages a reevaluation of the values placed on work, prompting a critical discussion about its true significance in contemporary society.